EDINBURGH, Scotland — Polls have opened across Scotland in a referendum that will decide whether the
country leaves its 307-year-old union with England and becomes an independent state.

More than 2,600 polling places opened Thursday at 7 a.m. (0600GMT, 2 a.m. EDT) and will close at 10
p.m. (2100GMT, 5 p.m. EDT). Turnout is expected to be high, with more than 4.2 million people
registered to vote — 97 percent of those eligible.

The question on the ballot paper is simplicity itself: "Should Scotland be an independent
country?" It has divided Scots during months of campaigning.
Polls suggest the result is too close to call, with the pro-independence Yes side gaining momentum
in the final weeks of the campaign.

First Minister Alex Salmond was casting his vote near his home in northeastern Scotland. If the Yes
side prevails he will realize a long-held dream of leading his country to independence after an
alliance with England formed in 1707.

Anti-independence leaders including former Prime Minister Gordon Brown have implored Scots not to
break their links with the rest of the United Kingdom. (Via Associated Press)

Could this be an independent for the Scottish young generation who’re so optimistic about the future
and the greater hope that a “YES” vote would offer. It’s a mix feeling though. Factions are on top
gear to garner voting strength.